Using Simulation in your Lean Projects

Process simulation is very powerful when included as part of an improvement project, particularly with complex environments such as an OR or ED. SIMUL8 enhances the ability to understand interdependencies, predict outcomes with a high degree of reliability, and test many scenarios prior to implementation.

SIMUL8 is uniquely valuable for LEAN and Six Sigma projects

Simulation can be a stand-alone project, with goals such as identifying bottlenecks, testing schedules and staffing models, or modifying existing processes.

SIMUL8 has also designed in several features to make it easy for LEAN and Six Sigma practitioners to integrate simulation into their existing improvement routine. For example:

Value Stream Mapping (VSM)

Value Stream Mapping is a great tool, but it is a static one. Simulation allows you to test current and future state scenarios dynamically, automatically generating robust results to help you identify the best solutions.

Value Stream Maps can be created directly in SIMUL8, which reduces rework and captures the process variability that is not included in a standard VSM package.

Take a closer look at SIMUL8's VSM capabilities in our webinar on Live Stream Mapping.

Spaghetti Diagram

SIMUL8 has a built-in distance feature, so you immediately know how much time a new layout will save.

SIMUL8 Corporation has also developed a 'Layout design and lean optimization tool for nurses', LeanHDX - an easy to use simulation software that lets nurses take control of improvement projects and provide evidence for change.

Bottleneck Identification

With SIMUL8's drag-and-drop queues, any bottlenecks are quickly visible.

SIMUL8 has built in data visualization features including:

Hot Spots

to graphically show at any time during the simulation run the best or worst performing objects in your process, highlighting when Queues, Activities or Resources are being under or over utilized.

Onscreen data

including on-hover routing information, to help you instantly verify at-a-glance that your simulation is configured correctly.